Week 3 in the ACC brings one of its most intriguing matchups as Duke welcomes NC State to Durham. Both teams have started the season strong and carry plenty of storylines into Saturday night. The Blue Devils are leaning on a fast-rising quarterback in Darian Mensah, while the Wolfpack are trying to stay unbeaten thanks to a balanced offense led by C.J. Bailey and Hollywood Smothers. With both teams fighting to stay afloat in the ACC, this game has turned into an early CFP elimination game.
Duke vs NC State: Key Players to Watch
Duke’s fortunes ride on the play of Darian Mensah, who has already topped 300 yards passing in his first three games. His ability to push the ball downfield has made the offense explosive, but the Blue Devils have shown cracks on defense, giving up more than 220 passing yards per outing. Freshman running back Nate Sheppard adds balance, bringing energy to the ground game with his burst runs.
The Wolfpack counters with C.J. Bailey, who has looked comfortable early in the season, throwing for five scores while adding three more with his legs. Hollywood Smothers has been the league’s most productive runner, averaging over 125 yards per contest. He forces defenses to load the box, which frees up space for receivers like Wesley Grimes and tight end Justin Joly to attack the secondary.
Odds and Betting Lines for Duke vs NC State
Oddsmakers give Duke the edge as a 3.5-point favorite, while the total sits at 58 points. The Blue Devils are listed around −160 on the moneyline, with NC State at +135. ESPN’s Football Power Index also tilts slightly toward Duke, but the margin is razor-thin.
Duke vs NC State Predictions
This matchup feels destined to come down to the final few drives. Duke will try to set the pace with Mensah’s arm and Sheppard’s quick-hitting runs, but if their secondary doesn’t tighten up, Bailey and Smothers are more than capable of punishing them. NC State has the more balanced team, and they should pull away late in this game.
Best Bet: NC State ML
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